If you didn’t get your first-choice course in CAO Round 1, don’t worry—you’re not out of options!
Besides the upcoming CAO Second Round Offers, the Available Places facility opens immediately after CAO Round 1, giving you another chance to find a course that suits your interests and goals.
Whether you’re hoping for an upgrade, considering a new direction, or applying late through CAO Available Places, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to take the next steps confidently.
What is CAO Round 2?
CAO Round 2 is the second stage of the Central Applications Office (CAO) offer process, which typically takes place in early September, about a week after Round 1 closes. In this round, students may receive offers for courses they ranked higher than the one they were offered in Round 1—provided that places are still available and they meet the minimum entry requirements.
Who is Eligible for CAO Round 2?
You may receive a Round 2 offer if:
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You did not receive any offer in Round 1.
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You received a Round 1 offer but ranked another course higher on your CAO application.
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You have met the minimum entry requirements and points for a course that still has available places.
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You applied for a course through the Available Places facility.
How does the CAO Second Round Offers Work?
This will depend on your individual scenario:
1. You Receive a New Offer
If you receive a Round 2 offer for a course that was ranked higher than your Round 1 offer, you have a choice:
2. You Do Not Receive a New Offer
If you don’t get a Round 2 offer, your Round 1 offer (if accepted) remains valid, and you may still receive offers in later rounds if places become available.
How to Accept a CAO Round 2 Offer
1. Log in to your CAO account.
2. Check for a new offer. If you receive one, it will be displayed on your CAO dashboard.
3. Decide whether to accept. You can only accept one offer at a time.
4. Accept before the deadline. The acceptance deadline is usually a few days after offers are issued.
5. Confirm with the institution. If switching from a Round 1 offer, notify the first institution that you are accepting a new place.
What is the Available Places Facility?
The Available Places facility is an option for students who:
• Did not receive any offers.
• Want to change their course choices entirely.
• Did not apply to CAO before but want to start now.
Through this facility, you can apply for courses that still have unfilled places. If you meet the minimum entry requirements, you may receive an offer in Round 2.
Can You Change Your Course Preferences Before Round 2?
Yes! If you’ve had a change of heart, you can reorder or add courses on your CAO list before Round 2 offers are issued. However, changes made at this stage will only apply to potential offers in Round 3 or later.
Entry Requirements for DBS Courses
If you’re considering applying to Dublin Business School (DBS) through Available Places, here’s what you need to know:
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Level 8 Degrees: Minimum of 2 H5s and 4 O6/H7s in the Leaving Cert, including a language (English or Irish). Some courses require maths at O6/H7.
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Level 6/7 Degrees: Minimum of 5 O6/H7s in the Leaving Cert, including a language (English or Irish). Some courses require maths at O6/H7.
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FETAC Applicants: Level 8 degrees require a full FETAC award with at least 3 distinctions. Level 6/7 degrees require a full FETAC award.
Interested in Psychology, Law, Film, Marketing, Business, Audio Production, Sustainability, or Social Sciences? Check out course entry requirements and make sure to include DBS courses in your CAO application.
Support for CAO Round 2
If you’re feeling unsure about your options, you’re not alone! Not getting your first preference or an offer can be disappointing, but there are always opportunities to adjust your plans.
Our Admissions Team is here to help you navigate CAO Round 2, Available Places, and course entry requirements. Get in touch:
Email: admissions@dbs.ie
Phone: 01 4177500
Visit our website: DBS.ie
CAO Round 2 is an important opportunity to secure the right course for you. Whether you receive a new offer, apply for Available Places, or reconsider your options, staying informed will help you make the best decision for your future. Be sure to check your CAO account regularly, act before deadlines, and reach out for advice if you need it.
Good luck, and we hope to see you at DBS soon!
FAQs
1. What if I don’t receive a Round 2 offer?
If you don’t receive a Round 2 offer, don’t panic. There are further rounds of offers, as well as Available Places, which allow you to apply for courses with remaining places.
2. Can I accept a Round 1 offer and still get a Round 2 offer?
Yes, you can accept a Round 1 offer while waiting for a Round 2 offer. If you receive a better offer in Round 2, you can accept it and notify the original institution.
3. What happens if I miss the deadline to change my preferences before Round 2?
If you miss the deadline, you won’t be able to modify your course list for Round 2, but you can still make changes for Round 3 and beyond.
4. How much does it cost to apply for a course through Available Places?
Available Places are open to new applicants for a fee of €45. If you're already a registered CAO applicant, there is no additional charge.
5. Can I apply for a course if I didn’t submit a CAO application initially?
Yes! If you didn’t apply before, you can create an application through the Available Places facility and be eligible for Round 2 offers.
6. Where can I find available courses at DBS?
Check out our list of courses, including Psychology, Law, Film, Marketing, Business, Audio Production, Sustainability, and Social Sciences. Feel free to contact our Admissions team at admissions@dbs.ie or 01 417 7500 for more information.